Featured Vacation Rental

Trinidad Bay Vacation Rentals
Stunning California Coastal Village

Vacations on the
Redwood Coast

"No Sailing Directions are required for this anchorage. It is perfectly safe from May to October and will be found of importance as a Harbor of Refuge for vessels that may have suffered on their way North from the strong head winds that generally prevail along the coast during these months."

Prepare to be awe-struck and inspired by a world-class, architectural wonder in a paradise setting. Be careful as you drive along beautiful Scenic Drive, because you might miss the unassuming, hidden driveway! As you descend into the alder and redwood forest, be sure to roll down the windows to stir your senses: take in the fresh aromas of the lush, temperate flora; the pungent sweetness of the woodland humus; the rush of the cascading creek in the nearby ravine, and the songs of the thriving aviary in the canopy that you’ll wake up to every morning. The mystical setting entices you forward as you arrive at the home, surrounded by old-growth Douglas Fir trees. You’ll notice the natural light increase as you approach, hinting at the open expanse of view scape in all directions you’ll behold in moments. Your breath will be held...suspended...The windows! The wood! THE VIEW! Before you lies one of the most picturesque settings in all of California. Sea stacks tower above the turbulent seas, flocks of marine birds soar and dive, turquoise and emerald hues of the bay glow against the darkened rocks, and fishermen bustle across the bay on the pier, sheltered by the looming Trinidad Head. Framed by a perennial creek, forests, a pristine beach and rocky coastline, the sounds of crashing surf, barking seals, trumpeting Aleutian and Canadian geese, laughing gulls, and chirping Osprey provide a symphonic accompaniment to the stunning visual and emotional experience. This wonderland lures your soul to fully retreat here.

Welcome to the Groth House!

The Groth House was designed and built as an extraordinary home and art studio by Bruno Groth, one of the country’s most inspired and accomplished sculptors, and his artist wife, Nita Groth. The estate is anchored among ancient trees on the very edge of a dramatic granite precipice in Trinidad, California, a unique, unspoiled, active salmon and dungeness crab fishing village of about 350 people. Somewhat camouflaged behind the groves on the cliff, the massive landmark home boldly commands
breathtaking, 180-degree views of rocky, Pacific coastline while appearing literally to jut out over the beach below.

The site of the home was considered a special place by the Yurok Native Americans whose summer village of Tsurai was situated near the short, gentle trail from the Groth House to Old Home Beach (Indian Beach), below, until the late nineteenth century.

Bruno Groth’s understanding of the potential for an esthetic unity between the works of man and nature resulted in an inspired design in his stunning architectural statement. Examples of his sculptures have been found in fine collections around the world. Experienced world travelers and artists who have returned as guests, year after year, describe Groth House as “one of the most inspiring places in the world.”

Groth House was built in 1972 of naturally-aged, recycled, ancient redwood timbers ranging in thickness from 16 inches square up to 22 inches square and in lengths up to 40 feet. Some of the wood was salvaged from the historic whaling station of Trinidad. Its ceilings soar 34 feet and some of the window sills framed by the huge timbers are 18” deep. One of its towering walls consists of multiple, exceptionally large, angular cuts of plate-glass panels suspended inside a matrix of massive, hand-sculpted, intersecting redwood beams. Polished redwood and green slate floors contrast with naturally-aged and weathered redwood walls. The changing light throughout the day creates a kaleidoscope of hues to behold from teal greens in the bay, warm wood tones in the home’s interior, chartreuse greens of vibrant lichen clinging to weathered trees, to peach glows of the setting sun behind the bold Trinidad Head. A native stone promenade leads through a lush landscape to an expansive stone stairway and breezeway. Stately entrances, such as ten-foot double doors with hand-forged pulls, were crafted by Groth onsite. These entrances to the main house to the south and to the studio are within the breezeway also. The studio to the north is occupied by a tenant who shares the upper breezeway with guests. The lower patio is used for property materials and is the tenant's private area.

The rich interior accents provide luxury and comfort to compliment the exquisite setting. Old-growth redwood plank walls, framing, and floors are accented by Brazilian stone or slate floors, native stone hearths, and wall structures. Stainless steel kitchen appliances, counter sections, sink and track lighting lend clean and modern elements to the space. The Viking electric range and Zephyr stainless hood headline the kitchen for a premier cooking experience. A walk-in pantry and a fully-stocked kitchen equips guests with all the conveniences for the home-away experience. Dining choices include a very large table with leaves and chairs that can accommodate up to 12 or a smaller set up near the kitchen. Natural lighting for what was once the artists’ studio glows from above in the skylight-filled ceiling in the middle of the home, from south-facing glass doors leading to the hot tub patio, and from the west-facing, signature wall of massive windows. Many of the windows were custom-made, locally. Complete with a pool table, a DVD library and a large flat-screen TV, guests will discover plenty of additional entertainment opportunities during down time. Koa wood floors in some rooms and mahogany interior doors perpetuate the warm feel and high-quality craftsmanship of the home. Stout, ornately carved, luxuriously appointed four-poster beds and Ashley sets grace the bedrooms. Two California Kings, one Queen and two twin beds in a bunk provide ample sleeping comfort for all. Guests will enjoy forest and ocean views from bedrooms. Storage amenities include armoires, multiple dressers, vanities, and closet spaces. Bathroom highlights encompass a glass vessel sink; tile plank or clear-heart redwood walls and accents; dual rain shower heads and glass doors; jade-toned river stone shower flooring; marble accents; shower benches and expansive mirrors. Escape to the master bedroom on its own floor to indulge in the best view in the house from the plush comforts of the lavish bed. This bedroom even has an electric, flame-view heater named “Trinidad”.

Multi-level decks wrap around the exterior of the house below window level. Stamped concrete patios surround the south side of the house, also home to the 8’ X 8’ hot tub that looks down the dramatic coastline as far as Cape Mendocino. A barbeque unit is provided in the hot tub patio area. The decks and the upper breezeways lure guests to enjoy the full views of the paradise surroundings. In addition to massive trees, verdant slopes and other masterworks by Mother Nature, there are wood sculpture pieces by Bruno Groth about the home and site. Discover the trail down the driveway leading to the sandy beach and rocks below, home to seals, pelicans, geese and many species of birds. Migrating whales and dolphins are regularly spotted in the winter and spring. Kayak touring, fishing, and hiking are popular divergences.

Special Considerations:

Check-in: 3 p.m.
Check-out: 11 a.m.

Due to the nature of the site, children must be under the DIRECT supervision of an adult at all times. All guests, especially those with children, please do not enter the lower breezeway area and staircase. It is clearly marked as a not-entry zone. Please use EXTREME CAUTION on the south and west sides of hot tub area as well as the entrance to the wrap-around deck; the surrounding terrain of steep grades and rocky ledges is hidden by vegetation.

Trinidad's lovely, lonely coast is home to dark spruce and redwood-cloaked ridges tumbling onto coastal cliffs and hidden coves. Pacific waves explode against the offshore rocks and headlands. Trinidad's majestic sea stacks are part of the California Coastal National Monument, a string of more than 20,000 rocks and small islands off the state's 1,100 mile-long coastline. The National Monument was designated to protect the offshore rocks’ significant scenic and ecological values, and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and its partners. The Trinidad area is one of the most spectacular and pristine segments of the California coast, and has been established as a California Coastal National Monument Gateway – an area that offers the best shore-based opportunities to discover and view offshore rocks and islands and their inhabitants. As you begin your coastal discovery, please (keep in mind, this is an) extremely fragile environment – tread lightly, view wildlife from a distance, and always respect your surroundings. Please always check with local regulations for all beach fishing and collection guidelines.

To access the nearby beach, walk down the property driveway and continue to gravel road that leads down to 20 Scenic Drive. Follow trail arrow signs pointing southwest towards the beach below. There is sometimes a plant along this trail that can irritate the skin, called nettle. The irritation is temporary and harmless, but does sting upon contact. Old Home is an excellent beach for children to play safely, as wave and rip current action is sheltered and buffered inside the Bay by the Trinidad Head. However, please always use caution when swimming in these waters by checking weather and marine forecasts, making sure swimmers have plenty of warm clothes to stay dry after bathing, not entering the water during storm or high swell conditions, watching for underwater rocks and vegetation that can effect balance, and staying at least 100 feet away from all wildlife. Water temperatures in the Bay average 51-55 degrees fahrenheit. Cool, coastal prevailing breezes can further decrease body temperatures; symptoms of hypothermia are possible with extended immersion and exposure without a wetsuit of at least a 4 mm thickness in winter/spring, and at least 2-3 mm in summer. Salty's Supply Company in Trinidad (limited hours) may rent wetsuits.

In order to maintain our home as allergen-free as reasonably possible, pets are not permitted and smoking is strictly prohibited.

With the exception of small dinner gatherings, parties are not permitted.

Overnight visitors will result in recalculation of rates. Please include expected overnight visitors in reservation arrangements.

Please note that this property hosts a detached apartment studio with a tenant. The tenant has 2 vehicles and keeps to the north side of property and uses the lower breezeway; we ask guests to respect this private area, which is also used for property storage. Please enjoy the fantastic views from the upper breezeway and deck, which is shared between Groth House guests and the tenant. The private deck and walkway for guests is on the south side of the house.

Due to space limitations, overnight parking is only for reserved guests. Three vehicles maximum for guests are allowed in the parking area adjacent to the home, which is shared with the tenant living in the unit on the north side of the property. For easier turn around of vehicles, there is also a pull out area at the base of the driveway. This area can also accommodate parking of up to three temporary vehicles.

Trinidad's lovely, lonely coast is home to dark spruce and redwood-cloaked ridges tumbling onto coastal cliffs and hidden coves. Pacific waves explode against the offshore rocks and headlands. Trinidad's majestic sea stacks are part of the California Coastal National Monument, a string of more than 20,000 rocks and small islands off the state's 1,100 mile-long coastline. The National Monument was designated to protect the offshore rocks’ significant scenic and ecological values, and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and its partners. The Trinidad area is one of the most spectacular and pristine segments of the California coast, and has been established as a California Coastal National Monument Gateway – an area that offers the best shore-based opportunities to discover and view offshore rocks and islands and their inhabitants. As you begin your coastal discovery, please (keep in mind, this is an) extremely fragile environment – tread lightly, view wildlife from a distance, and always respect your surroundings. Please always check with local regulations for all beach fishing and collection guidelines.

The Native American communities are a vital part of Trinidad's cultural landscape. We encourage prospective guests to visit www.tsuraivillage.org for additional information about the history of the Yurok village that was once thriving around the property's location. Ancestral sites exist throughout the area, so this is another critical reason that disruption of vegetation, soil, or beach habitat is strictly prohibited.

"The Tsurai Village has been in existence since time immemorial. Located on the northern coast of California, in Humboldt County, the Tsurai enjoyed an elegant lifestyle until European contact by way of Spanish explorers in 1775. The Spanish erected the wooden cross on Tsurewa [named Trinidad Head by European settlers], and proclaimed the new acquisition for the King of Spain, forever naming the area Trinidad. Since that time, there have been steady changes to Tsurai. Some pieces forever lost, while others remain intact and resilient. The Tsurai people being most resilient piece, and adapting to the times by forming this non-profit [the Tsurai Ancestral Society] to protect the cultural landscape that made up our traditional boundaries. The Tsurai Ancestral Society is made up of documented lineal descendants of the Tsurai village.

The Tsurai Ancestral Society (TAS) is a committed steward of the village. We participate in local, state, and federal government processes when advocating for protection and management of the Study Area, and other traditionally significant sites in and around the Trinidad Area. It is important to us to maintain public access while promoting protection and preservation for future generations to enjoy. "

The Trinidad Rancheria tribal office, just south of the Groth House, on Scenic Drive, also provides a wealth of information on the vibrant culture of the Cher-ae Heights community. The Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria is a federally recognized tribe located in the Trinidad area. The tribe’s continued growth includes social & cultural programs, business enterprises, partnerships and services for tribal members which honor the past and look toward the future.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT...

Due to the nature of the site, children must be under the DIRECT supervision of an adult at all times. All guests, especially those with children, please do not enter lower breezeway area and staircase. It is clearly marked as a not-entry zone. Please use EXTREME CAUTION on the south and west sides of hot tub area as well as the entrance to the wrap-around deck; the surrounding terrain of steep grades and rocky ledges is hidden by vegetation.

To access the nearby beach, walk down the property driveway and continue to gravel road that leads down to 20 Scenic Drive. Follow trail arrow signs pointing southwest towards the beach below. There is sometimes a plant along this trail that can irritate the skin, called nettle. The irritation is temporary and harmless, but does sting upon contact. Old Home is an excellent beach for children to play safely, as wave and rip current action is sheltered and buffered inside the Bay by the Trinidad Head. However, please always use caution when swimming in these waters by checking weather and marine forecasts, making sure swimmers have plenty of warm clothes to stay dry after bathing, not entering the water during storm or high swell conditions, watching for underwater rocks and vegetation that can effect balance, and staying at least 100 feet away from all wildlife. Water temperatures in the Bay average 51-55 degrees fahrenheit. Cool, coastal prevailing breezes can further decrease body temperatures; symptoms of hypothermia are possible with extended immersion and exposure without a wetsuit of at least a 4 mm thickness in winter/spring, and at least 2-3 mm in summer. Salty's Supply Company in Trinidad (limited hours) may rent wetsuits. Please always check with local regulations for all beach fishing and collection guidelines.

In order to maintain our home as allergen-free as reasonably possible, pets are not permitted and smoking is strictly prohibited.

With the exception of small dinner gatherings, parties are not permitted.

Overnight visitors will result in recalculation of rates. Please include expected overnight visitors in reservation arrangements.

Please note that this property hosts a detached apartment studio with a tenant. The tenant has 2 vehicles and keeps to the north side of property and uses the lower breezeway; we ask guests to respect this private area, which is also used for property storage. Please enjoy the fantastic views from the upper breezeway and deck, which is shared between Groth House guests and the tenant. The private deck and walkway for guests is on the south side of the house.

Due to space limitations, overnight parking is only for reserved guests. Three vehicles maximum for guests are allowed in the parking area adjacent to the home, which is shared with the tenant living in the unit on the north side of the property. For easier turn around of vehicles, there is also a pull out area at the base of the driveway. This area can also accommodate parking of up to three temporary vehicles.

Again, we hope you enjoy your stay at Trinidad Bay in the Famous Groth House!